Windows 8 Consumer Preview
Microsoft chose February 29 for the official launch of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview. People did get a taste of Microsoft’s next operating system earlier this year with the Developer Build, but this preview is meant for adventurous end-users who want a taste of the next-gen OS months in advance.
Available as a free download, the Consumer Preview for the PC gives us a look at the various features and the redesign of the default Windows layout.
Metro, Apps and more Metro
Central to the theme of Windows 8 is the ‘Metro’ interface, consisting of large tiles that take the place of traditional icons. Each tile is a live feed from a particular app (application/program/software) that’s installed on your PC. The interface has been designed with touch screens in mind, a fact that annoyed many PC purists when rumours had started surfacing during the last year.
However, Microsoft has tried to make sure it doesn’t lose its main market, i.e., PCs and states that Metro will work well with a mouse and keyboard as well. Additionally, the Metro interface can be disabled if desired, leading the user back to the usual desktop we’re all familiar with, except that it’s not quite the same anymore.
The iconic start button has been removed. Now, you have to click the now empty lower-left corner. This takes you back to the Metro screen. System-related applications can be accessed by taking the mouse to the right corner, while the left side reveals recently used programs.
Users using touch enabled devices will enjoy the gesture support implemented by Metro: swipe to multitask, snap apps to the sides, pinch-and-zoom, rotate, drag and rearrange things your way, says the Redmond-based company.
With apps like Mail, Calendar, Messaging, Photos and SkyDrive integrated into the OS, Microsoft aims to push its social theme, just like it’s doing with their present Windows Phone 7 OS.
Windows Store and the Cloud
While regular programs will be available as they’ve always been, Metro apps will have to be downloaded from the Windows Store. Microsoft’s chosen the Apple approach, and will verify that each app is safe to use.
Another key feature is the concept of a universal sign-in. As long as you’re connected to the net, sign in with your Windows Live ID and all your Windows 8 devices will automatically update themselves to match your settings. Should you chose to store your files in the cloud, you’ll be able to access them from anywhere.
Internet Explorer (IE) 10 IE 10 aims to take full-screen minimalist browsing further than Google’s Chrome or Opera browser.
Under the Hood
Highly compatible Windows 8 will improve the threaded performance of apps and feature faster multi-core booting, improved file and task management, improve security and implement the standard secure boot and data encryption features. It improves power management of portable devices and provides consumers businesses of securely managing and integrating various devices on a network. System requirements remain the same as those of Windows 7.
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